Qatar has suspended work across ministries, government agencies and public institutions until July 19 following the death of former Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani.
The Amiri Diwan announced four days of national mourning starting on July 12 after Sheikh Hamad passed away at the age of 74. During this period, the country will fly flags at half-mast while government offices remain closed.
Government offices to reopen on July 19
The suspension took effect on Monday, July 13, and employees across ministries, public bodies and government institutions will return to work on Sunday, July 19.
Although the official mourning lasts four days, the closure extends through Qatar’s regular Friday-Saturday weekend. As a result, public-sector employees will remain away from offices for the rest of the working week.
Private-sector businesses not included
The Amiri Diwan’s directive applies only to ministries, government agencies, public bodies and public institutions. It does not announce a mandatory closure for private-sector employers.
Therefore, HR teams and business leaders in the private sector should continue following existing work schedules unless authorities issue additional instructions.
Organisations that depend on government approvals or public services may, however, face temporary delays. Employers should also review scheduled meetings, regulatory submissions and employee communication plans to minimise disruption.
Essential services to continue
Despite the broader suspension, several essential public-health services will continue to operate under revised schedules during the mourning period. This will help maintain access to critical services while national observances continue.
Former Emir Sheikh Hamad dies at 74
Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani ruled Qatar from 1995 until 2013, when he voluntarily transferred power to his son, Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
The Amiri Diwan said in its official announcement that work across ministries and government institutions would remain suspended until Sunday, July 19, while the nation observes the mourning period.
